7-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander to Oviedo and Bilbao and surrounding area
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Spain as you embark on an unforgettable 7-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Cueto, Santander, Cangas de Onís, Ribeseya, Gijon, Oviedo, Cabezón de la Sal, Santillana del Mar, Villaescusa, Bilbao, Sukarrieta, Getxo, and Portugalete.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Spain takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Santander, 1 night in Oviedo, and 2 nights in Bilbao. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Spain. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Santander, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Spain on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Spain. Guggenheim Museum and Cabarceno Natural Park are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Sanctuary Of Covadonga, learn more about the unique Vizcaya Bridge, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Palacio De La Magdalena.
As you hit the open road and drive through Cueto, Santander, Cangas de Onís, Ribeseya, Gijon, Oviedo, Cabezón de la Sal, Santillana del Mar, Villaescusa, Bilbao, Sukarrieta, Getxo, and Portugalete, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Spain. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Spain.
Throughout your road trip in Spain, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Spain.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Spain fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Spain today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Santander - Arrival day
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- Llamas Park
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Say hello to Santander! Your exciting road trip through Spain is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Santander for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!
Santander is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Llamas Park, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Santander. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Spain. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Santander, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurante la Mayor, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Santa & Co offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Marcello Restaurante is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Santander.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Kings Pub, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Grog, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Hygge Cocktail provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Spain!
Day 2
- Santander
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Drive 10 km, 38 min
- Plaza Porticada
- Mercado del Este
- Botin Centre
- Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico
- Palacio de la Magdalena
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Santander for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Santander is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a public square, a market, an art gallery, a maritime museum, a palace and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the locally appreciated Plaza Porticada and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Mercado Del Este, a respected market that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Centro Botin, one of the city’s most popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the often recommended Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico. When you're finished at the maritime museum, Palacio De La Magdalena awaits your visit. This palace is a respected highlight on today's itinerary.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Spain is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Santander. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Experience a harmony of flavors at Cadelo in Santander by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Cadelo offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Umma, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern cuisine. This popular Bib Gourmand-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Agua Salada, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional contemporary and traditional menu.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Little Bobby, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!
Day 3
- Santander
- Oviedo
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Drive 260 km, 3 hours 44 min
- Roman bridge in Cangas de Onis
- Sanctuary of Covadonga
- Mirador del Fitu
- San Lorenzo Beach
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Cangas de Onís, Cuadonga/Covadonga, Ribeseya, and Gijon. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Oviedo, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Santander, including a monument, a church, an observation deck, a beach and much more! Start your day at Roman Bridge In Cangas De Onis. This romantic monument is a well-known place to see in Santander. Then, wander over to Sanctuary Of Covadonga. If majestic sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Mirador Del Fitu. This serene observation deck is a favorite among visitors.
Santander offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, San Lorenzo Beach is a well-known spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Oviedo. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Oviedo. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurante Doña Concha, a top-rated dining spot in Oviedo. If you're in the mood for something new, try Quemedás, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at La Oveja Negra. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Oviedo.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Astur, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bar Bodegón is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Baam is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Spain and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4
- Oviedo
- Bilbao
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Drive 306 km, 3 hours 32 min
- Natural Monument of the Sequoias of Monte Cabezón
- Laberinto De Villapresente
- Cave of Altamira
- Cabarceno Natural Park
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Cabezón de la Sal, Cerrazo, Santillana del Mar, and Villaescusa, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Bilbao. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Oviedo, including a nature reserve, a maze, a cave, a safari park and much more! Start your adventure at Monumento Natural De Las Secuoyas Del Monte Cabezón. This captivating nature reserve is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Villapresente's Labyrinth located in Oviedo for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Cave Of Altamira. Its picture-perfect features will captivate you. After the cave, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Cabarceno Natural Park. Visitors usually appreciate the visually striking features of this safari park.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bilbao. Bilbao offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As you explore more of Bilbao, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Have a memorable dining experience in Bilbao by booking a table at Mina, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative and seasonal menu. For a different culinary experience in Bilbao, Zortziko shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious contemporary cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Etxanobe Atelier is known as a top local spot for its delicious creative cuisine in Bilbao. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Boss Bilbao, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Stromboli Taberna provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Zuberoa Taberna offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Spain!
Day 5
- Bilbao
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Drive 3 km, 42 min
- Zubizuri
- Puppy
- Guggenheim Museum
- Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao
- Doña Casilda Iturrizar park
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Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Bilbao has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Bilbao by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Start your day at Zubizuri. This romantic art installation is a well-known place to see in Bilbao. Then, wander over to Puppy. If picture-perfect sites excite you, this art installation will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Guggenheim Museum.
Bilbao offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao is an increasingly popular spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the museum, don’t forget to check out the mesmerizing Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this locally renowned park.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Spain is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bilbao. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Dine in style at Café Iruña, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Iturriza Taberna boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Antxoa Taberna. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bilbao.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Spain!
Day 6
- Bilbao
- Santander
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Drive 195 km, 3 hours 26 min
- Federiko Moiua enparantza
- Parque Etxebarria
- Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve
- Puerto Viejo
- Vizcaya Bridge
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On day 6 of your road trip in Spain, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Bilbao, Sukarrieta, Getxo, and Portugalete. In the evening, you’ll end up in Santander, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Bilbao on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Federico Moyúa Enparantza is the first of them. Etxebarri Parkea is your next stop. This underrated park is one of the best-rated sights in Bilbao.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba. This romantic nature reserve is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Puerto Viejo and Vizcaya Bridge.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Santander, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Santander. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, El Sol beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurante Posada Del Mar. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Santander tonight.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Spain!
Day 7
- Santander - Departure day
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- Parque de Mataleñas
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Day 7 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Santander before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Parque De Mataleñas. This increasingly popular park is a popular place to see in the city.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Santander.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Cadelo Restaurante, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Cervecería Kiss? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Santander. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Spain!
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